For Kathy Saunders, the day started like any other. She drove to the HoneyTree Early Learning Center on Patrick Road in Roanoke to pick up her three-year-old granddaughter. It was a familiar routine, one she had done before with full confidence in the staff. Like many families, she trusted that the daycare was a nurturing and safe place where children could play, learn, and thrive. But what should have been a peaceful moment turned into a situation filled with unexpected questions about how well young children are truly supervised in busy care environments.
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A surprising moment
When Kathy called out her granddaughter’s name, she expected to see her playing in the classroom or with other kids nearby. Instead, the little girl walked out of a bathroom, accompanied by two young boys. The children were unsupervised, and their behavior seemed unusual for their age. Kathy was taken aback. While young children are naturally curious and eager to explore the world, it’s essential that they are guided gently and attentively by adults who help them navigate each learning moment with care and clarity.
A mother in search
After realizing what had happened, Kathy immediately contacted her granddaughter’s mother, Megan Cash. Megan rushed to the daycare with a heart full of concern and questions. She needed to understand how her daughter ended up alone in a private space with no adult around. For parents balancing work and family, dependable child care is crucial. Megan hoped for an honest and open conversation with the daycare staff — one that never came.
The daycare’s silence
Megan reached out several times to the HoneyTree Early Learning Center, seeking transparency and support. But instead of a heartfelt response or a thoughtful explanation, she heard nothing. For a parent already dealing with so much uncertainty, that lack of communication was deeply disappointing. Clear and compassionate dialogue is essential in moments like this — it helps rebuild trust and offers reassurance when it’s needed most.
Medical visit confirms health
To be sure everything was okay, Megan brought her daughter to a local hospital for a full check-up. Thankfully, the doctors confirmed the little girl was in perfect health. That brought a wave of relief to the family. However, Megan noticed her daughter behaving differently in the days that followed. At three years old, children might not yet have the words to explain what they’re feeling, but they still sense and absorb what’s going on around them. A gentle and open approach helps children understand their emotions in a safe, calm way.
Did you know? Young children develop strong emotional resilience when they feel heard, seen, and supported by trusted caregivers. According to psychologist Dr. Daniel Siegel, discussing daily experiences helps children process their feelings and build confidence in their own voice.
Choosing to stay home
After careful thought, Megan made the decision to pause her job so she could be at home full-time with her daughter. “Sometimes your priorities shift,” she shared. “Right now, I just want to be there for her.” This choice has given Megan the peace of mind she needed — knowing her daughter is safe and surrounded by love. Although adjusting to one income can be challenging, Megan sees this as an opportunity to strengthen their bond and create a calm and consistent environment at home.
Why consistent care and thoughtful supervision matter in childcare
The experience Megan and Kathy went through highlights just how vital proper supervision is in early childhood environments. Children are naturally active and curious, and while that’s wonderful, they also rely on adults to create structure and ensure their safety. Well-trained and engaged staff can provide that security while nurturing each child’s growth. Bathrooms and private spaces in particular should always be monitored to ensure children feel both free and safe.
According to a 2021 study by the Harvard Graduate School of Education, environments where staff are actively involved and emotionally present lead to higher self-confidence and stronger emotional development in young children.
Hoping for open dialogue
As of now, HoneyTree Early Learning Center has not issued a public response. Megan and her family continue to hope the situation will serve as a meaningful opportunity for reflection and improvement — not out of blame, but from a place of care. Every child deserves an environment that feels safe and structured. And every parent deserves to feel heard when they have questions about their child’s care. For now, Megan’s focus remains on creating a calm, supportive space for her daughter at home — while hoping their experience helps others make more informed choices about early childcare.
Key takeaways from this story:
- Kathy Saunders found her granddaughter in a bathroom without adult supervision, accompanied by two other young children.
- The unexpected situation raised concerns about monitoring and structure within the daycare.
- Megan Cash received no clear communication or support from the childcare staff.
- A hospital visit confirmed the child’s health, but emotional changes followed.
- Megan made the decision to stay home and care for her daughter full-time.
- The story reinforces how vital supervision and routine are in early childcare settings.
- HoneyTree Early Learning Center has not yet responded to inquiries.
- The family is calling for improved attention, guidance, and communication in childcare facilities.
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The information presented in this article is intended solely for educational and informational purposes. While the events discussed are based on real-life experiences, they do not replace advice from certified medical, legal, or financial professionals. Readers are encouraged to consult appropriate experts for guidance regarding personal concerns. SPECTRUM Magazine is not liable for decisions made based on the content of this article. All stories are shared with care and respect for those involved.
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Professional references:
- Siegel, D. J. (2020). The Power of Showing Up: How Parental Presence Shapes Who Our Kids Become and How Their Brains Get Wired. Link
- Harvard Graduate School of Education. (2021). How Childcare Quality Shapes Early Development. Link
- Copple, C. & Bredekamp, S. (2009). Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Early Childhood Programs. National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Link